The best sun creams

You don't have to spend a fortune to stay safe in the sun, with plenty of budget sun lotions, sun creams, milks and oils all doing a decent job at protecting you from the sun's harmful rays. But if you want to combine your sunscreen with good skincare, that's another issue altogether – and usually means being more willing to splash the cash.

But in a saturated market, where every luxury sunscreen makes grand promises, how do you know which one to buy? Read on for our top recommendations. They're all high-performing, hard-working, non-greasy and utterly fabulous when it comes to looking after your skin in both the short and long term.

By Kate Hilpern

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1
Jurlique Sun Specialist SPF40

The Aussies are experts when it comes to sun safety and this brand is among their best skincare exports. Extremely protective, yet completely natural, it offers broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays and contains a super-berry complex that provides antioxidants to the skin, with a lovely calming scent.

2
Dermalogica Sun Protection SPF50 Sport

Sport and fitness enthusiasts will love this high-factor, water-resistant and all-natural sunscreen that protects against the sun's harmful rays even when you sweat. Good for all skin types, you can feel it nourishing the skin and yet it leaves no trace of a greasy trail.

3
Murad Invisiblur Protecting Shield SPF30

Suitable for the faces of redheads through to African-Caribbeans, this primes, moisturises, protects and stimulates collagen production to reduce wrinkles. It feels like liquid satin to apply and it doesn't leave any residue or chalkiness, like many other SPF formulas do. Completely invisible, it blurs fine lines and acts as a great base for make-up.

4
Sisley Super Stick Solaire SPF30

This lightweight, gorgeously scented and utterly glamorous sunscreen is easy to apply and keeps even the most sensitive skin feeling soft and hydrated, as well as protecting it from harmful rays, thanks to the high-tech, state of the art cellular protecting formula. Very compact, it fits neatly in the smallest of handbags.

5
Clarins Sun Care Milton Lotion Spray SPF20

If you're after moderate sun protection that's quick and easy to apply all over, this body milk spray is just the ticket. It's water resistant, so it won't stop you going for a swim, and we think it's great value for a product with an extravagant feel and scent from one of the best names in skincare.

6
Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily Defence SPF50

This is so light that you wonder how on earth it can be sweat and water resistant, and yet this moisturising, oil-free lotion stays on even when you're active. Suitable for sensitive skin, it's likely to become a staple of your morning routine, although we found it wasn't great for Asian or black skin.

7
Bakel Suncare Face and Body SPF30

This 100 per cent natural and vegan cream spreads on like velvet and leaves skin feeling soft and moisturised all day, making it equally good for both the face and body. Both anti-ageing and effective in protecting against the sun's harmful rays, it's particularly nourishing.

9
Perricone MD Photo Plasma SPF30

If you are prone to skin irritation and break-outs, particularly in the summer months, look no further. This light, oil-free, non-chemical mineral sunscreen moisturises and protects even the most sensitive skin, as well as providing a lovely glow. A world away from heavy, oily alternatives that leave your pores feeling clogged, it's perfect for under make-up or as a standalone option.

10
ARK Skin Protector SPF30 Primer

Want a sunscreen that you can apply make-up directly on top of? This superb primer with high SPF means you can apply one less layer in the mornings. It is a joy to put on – silky smooth but quick drying – and provides a protective veil against all day, even if you are prone to getting hot and sticky. It gives a lovely glow too.

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